FROM SAY TO BUSSA 409 country were constantly employed making these mats, and even go on working at them as they walk along, reminding us of the old women at home with their perpetual stocking-knitting, I reminded the chief of the danger his village was in from the Foutanis, and told him that Dendi, Kebbi, and Djerma ought to combine against the invaders ; in fact, even pass from the defensive to the offensive. I also asked for guides to take me to the chief of Dendi, to' whom 1 wished to say the same things, and to talk to on other matters, and I begged him to send us as many of his people as he could to be present at our palaver. I also wanted to see the brother of Serki Kebbi.

Everything I asked was promised at once, and we were Just about to return to the boats when we were overtaken by the rain, I had had the presents for the chief and his people got ready beforehand, and they were now brought